Sustainability in yachting; the most innovative yacht features

Yachting is intrinsically linked to the world’s oceans, which are now under threat from pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction and climate concerns.  The world’s oceans cover 71% of our planet and are essential to life, producing over half the world’s oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide.

Due to a shift in consumer mindset towards sustainability and the fact that eco-friendly yachts offer a high-end, luxurious experience without compromising on the environment, an increasing number of brokerages and shipyards are taking the necessary steps to reduce any environmental impact on marine life that yachting may incur.

From hybrid engines to high-tech wastewater treatment and new developments in naval architecture and design, yacht owners have a wide range of options to choose from to make their boats more eco-friendly. Find out more about the latest innovations in yachting designed to reduce damage to our oceans.

 

What are some of the top sustainability in yachting features?

Top sustainability in yachting features include:

• Hybrid propulsion systems
• More efficient stabilizer systems
• Solar panels
• State-of-the-art water treatment systems
• Eco-friendly interiors and amenities
• Carbon off-setting practices

Let’s explore these in more detail.

1. More efficient stabilizer systems

Today’s marine stabilizers work both at anchor and underway, preventing roll and providing enhanced comfort at sea. Not only do modern stabilizers enhance onboard comfort, but they have also been designed with the ‘green movement’ in mind. In fact, stabilizers have entered an exciting chapter in sustainability with a new hydraulic/electric power unit soon to enter the market in June 2023.

This hybrid power system, is expected to dramatically reduce the carbon footprint. A hybrid power system uses the best attributes of both hydraulic and electric power sources. The latest stabilizers offer smooth power that does not fluctuate and requires 50% less power than a traditional hydraulic system. This innovation in yachting boasts up to 60% greater efficiencies, only consuming energy as required, when required.

2. Solar panels

Solar panel yachts are becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly and cost-efficient way to explore the seas. Innovative motor yachts can extract solar energy to power the engines, eliminating the need for petroleum-based fuel. While these vessels are a clean and renewable energy source, solar panel yachts save yacht owners significant amounts of money on fuel costs. The panels are also highly durable, built to withstand harsh weather conditions such as saltwater and strong winds.

In addition, some motor yachts are now equipped with large battery storage systems, allowing them to operate independently of internal combustion engines.

 

3. Water treatment systems

Advanced wastewater treatment systems are another important feature of sustainability in yachting. While these systems are not new, they continue to be improved and refined, dramatically reducing the number of pollutants released into the environment.

 

4. Sustainable interiors

In the mission to create environmentally friendly yachts that are still aesthetically pleasing and luxurious, shipyards and designers are becoming increasingly innovative in their use of recycled and repurposed new materials, such as reclaimed wood or artificial teak. The latest sustainable innovation in yachting uses unique materials, such as Green Blade wall coverings made from banana plant trunks and mushroom fibers as an alternative to leather.

 

5. Eco-friendly amenities

Other environmentally friendly yacht features include biodegradable golf balls, exercise water bikes, and fuel-efficient water treatment systems. Biodegradable golf balls are made from materials that break down over time and can be used to reduce plastic pollution. Exercise water bikes can be used to generate energy while the yacht is in motion, while fuel-efficient water treatment systems can also reduce water waste.

 

6. Off-set environmental damage

Finally, yacht owners should also consider the impact of their activities while on the high seas. For instance, off-setting carbon emissions and participating in marine research and conservation can help reduce the environmental impact of a yacht. Additionally, using eco-friendly cleaning products onboard and limiting the use of non-essential equipment can help reduce emissions.

By utilizing these innovations in yachting, the superyacht industry can become more environmentally conscious and reduce its impact on the planet, preserving the oceans for future generations.

Which one of these environmentally friendly yacht features are you considering this next year?